This is the spectacular moment a homemade spinning helix rocket accidentally exploded in a shower of sparks and smoke at a Buddhist rain-making festival in Thailand.

Drone footage shows the disc-shaped explosive made of PVC pipes flying into the sky before bursting into a rain of shrapnel falling on locals in Kalasin province on May 21.

Fortunately, no one was reported harmed as the villagers were able to take shelter from the debris.

Governor Supasit said: 'The festival aims to promote the local traditions and heritage among the residents, as well as boost tourism in the region to stimulate economic growth.

'We encourage the community to always be engaged in these events, and for people to use their leisure time in meaningful and productive ways.

'The festival also provided an opportunity for government agencies and local residents to collaborate and work together.'

Sawaeng Uttarak, mayor of the Kutwa locality, said: 'The collaboration between the Kutwa municipality, the Kalasin Provincial Office, and various related organisations were instrumental in organising the two-day festival.'

Thailand's Rocket Festival is held annually to honour Phaya Thaen, the Buddhist deity of rainmaking, as farmers and villagers pray for rain for a bountiful harvest. They believe the rockets will reach the clouds and help to stimulate impending monsoon downpours, which last until October or November.

Authorities also hope to pass down the decades-long tradition by organising spectacular shows that will fire the imaginations of younger residents.

This is the spectacular moment a homemade spinning helix rocket exploded in a shower of sparks and smoke at a Buddhist rain-making festival in Thailand.

Drone footage shows the disc-shaped explosive made of PVC pipes flying into the sky before bursting into a rain of shrapnel falling on locals in Kalasin province on May 21.

No one was reported harmed as the villagers were able to take shelter from the debris.

Governor Supasit said: 'The festival aims to promote the local traditions and heritage among the residents, as well as boost tourism in the region to stimulate economic growth.

'We encourage the community to always be engaged in these events, and for people to use their leisure time in meaningful and productive ways.

'The festival also provided an opportunity for government agencies and local residents to collaborate and work together.'

Sawaeng Uttarak, mayor of the Kutwa locality, said: 'The collaboration between the Kutwa municipality, the Kalasin Provincial Office, and various related organisations were instrumental in organising the two-day festival.'

Thailand's Rocket Festival is held annually to honour Phaya Thaen, the Buddhist deity of rainmaking, as farmers and villagers pray for rain for a bountiful harvest. They believe the rockets will reach the clouds and help to stimulate impending monsoon downpours, which last until October or November.

Authorities also hope to pass down the decades-long tradition by organising spectacular shows that will fire the imaginations of younger residents.